Elderly Care Careers

Tom Hanson, Contributing Writer

Updated: 3/13/2010

Gerontology

Gerontology focuses on the process of aging as individuals move from middle age into later life. At the individual level, the field involves the complex study of the physical, mental, and social changes in older people as they age.

In addition, gerontology involves studying the impact an aging population has on society. The knowledge gleaned from such study is then used to help design programs and create appropriate policies related to the senior age group.

Geriatrics

While still involving the elderly, geriatrics focuses more on health related issues, particularly the unique diseases associated with older people (mobility issues and those related to mental acuity such as dementia and Alzheimer’s).

To properly care for the elderly, a comprehensive health care plan must be developed. Such a plan involves specific elements for the individual in need of care as well as those family and friends helping to provide informal care for a loved one.

Available Jobs

The list of career options for working with the elderly is extensive. Some individuals choose to focus on providing direct healthcare related services to ill or impaired seniors, doing so in various settings such as private homes, hospitals, clinics, adult day care programs or nursing homes. Some positions involve only a high school diploma and a desire to make a difference while many others require an associate’s degree or relevant certification.

Others may want to choose one of the social service options available. A much needed service is to provide professional counseling for the elderly and the families tasked with providing care for an elderly family member. Such counselors would possess at least a bachelor’s degree and would have extensive training related to the unique needs of seniors, particularly as it relates to end of life issues.

Still others choose to provide services at senior centers, community agencies, and retirement communities. These services range from providing assistance related to estate planning and investments, funding potential long-term care if it should become necessary, and sifting through the various housing options available for seniors. Other individuals help develop and deliver health promotion programs and set up in-house social activities for older persons. Schooling for these positions varies with the position and the responsibilities associated with the role.

In addition, a number of positions exist that involve working on behalf of seniors. Instead of providing direct services to the elderly, these individuals may be involved in conducting research, analyzing issues related to older persons, teaching courses on aging or advising businesses on the needs of older workers and consumers.

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